Where you choose to live after retirement will have an impact on your quality of life. Some areas provide better accommodation for a senior lifestyle.
Arizona has cultivated a growing population of adults over the age of 55. The state is a preferred destination for seniors. Older adults who already live here have a leg up on the newcomers. They already reside in one of the best states for retirees.
There are many reasons to consider staying in Arizona after retirement. Why are so many seniors moving to Arizona?
A Senior-Friendly Climate Means More Safety and Comfort
Seniors in northern states face climate-related challenges like ice and snow. Cold temperatures and slippery surfaces can be very dangerous for older adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that falls are the leading cause of injuries for people over age 65.
Living in Arizona won’t remove all fall risks, but it will reduce the risk by eliminating certain weather-related factors.
Vista Living Senior Care manages homes in Phoenix and Paradise Valley, two communities that enjoy warmer weather with a cold season that only lasts a little over three months. The average temperature during this time usually falls between the mid-50s and mid-60s.
Bustling Senior Communities That Are Ideal for Socializing
Socializing is essential to good health and wellbeing. A Chinese study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health in 2023 found that even a little socializing can increase a person’s longevity. After tracking participants over five years, researchers found that more socialization led to a greater lifespan increase.
As we age, we tend to lose more people in our lives. Medical problems and mobility can make it harder to rebuild our social networks and stay actively social.
Arizona is a popular place for seniors, which means that there’s already a community of peers thriving there. If you are a resident, then you may have an established social circle. If you don’t, it is easier to build one when there’s a thriving community of fellow seniors.
Moving into an assisted living community is also a good way to socialize when you need support for activities of daily living. Residents can make friends in a place that accommodates their limitations and needs. Learn how to build your social circle in assisted living.
An Abundance of Activities for Seniors of All Ages
There’s something for everyone when it comes to activities and entertainment. Paradise Valley and Phoenix are both bustling areas. A large population of seniors helps to influence local amenities and businesses.
Both communities offer shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Active seniors can explore the miles of hiking trails in Paradise Valley to experience the mountains and deserts. Phoenix is just as appealing, with senior-friendly events, attractions, fitness classes, and more.
What can seniors living in Arizona do for fun?
- Attend a performance at the Arizona Opera
- Tour art museums or the Desert Botanical Garden
- See a performance at Ballet Arizona
- Go bowling at Lucky Strike or Let It Roll Bowl
- Join games at one of the many Bingo halls in the area
- Experience world-class golfing
- Play pickleball at the Paradise Valley Senior Center
- Enjoy a relaxing spa day at one of the local resorts
Vista Living Senior Care also manages an ongoing events calendar for residents. Find out what’s coming up to discover more ways to socialize into your golden years.
Easy Access to Senior Care Services as You Need Them
Having easy access to senior care services becomes essential as we age. The older we get, the more support we will need.
Arizona is recognized as a good location for senior healthcare. Those services are even more abundant if you live in a city like Phoenix or a nearby suburb like Paradise Valley. There are many medical care providers available offering the types of services that older adults need.
The area is also ideal for other types of senior services like home health and assisted living. Vista Living Senior Care offers the perfect mix of residential comfort and daily support.
Transportation Services That Don’t Require Owning a Car
Owning a vehicle can become a burden as we age. It costs money to pay for insurance, upkeep, and fuel. And many seniors develop health issues or diminished vision that makes it difficult or impossible to drive safely.
Arizona’s cities offer many alternatives to car ownership. Seniors can remain as independent as possible and travel locally without driving themselves. There are bus and rail systems. Uber Health’s non-emergency medical transportation is also available in Phoenix.
Residents in an assisted living community will have even more options. Facilities may offer transport to appointments or can connect seniors with local travel services that do.
Is Arizona the Best Place to Live After Retirement?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer for retirement. You should also consider what you want and need before settling on a location.
Arizona is an appealing choice for aging adults. The decision may be even easier to make if you already live here. You’ll have access to transportation, healthcare services, and a thriving senior community. Assisted living is also available when additional support is needed.